Xoi La Dua Recipes

Xôi lá dứa is a very popular snack/dessert in Vietnam. It's made of pandan-flavored steamed sticky rice covered in sweetened, fragrant coconut milk. Sticky rice can be flavored in many ways and there are plenty of savory versions as well, but our favorite is the one prepared with pandan leaves. To save time and add extra flavor, I used store-bought pandan paste in addition to the pandan leaves and also added coconut powder and coconut milk. Don't be fooled by the vegan aspect of this festive dessert, I serve it in small portions because of its rich properties.

The more authentic way of serving xôi lá dứa is to present it family-style on a large platter and to pair the sticky rice with freshly-grated coconut shreds and powdered, sweetened peanut and sesame garnish.